Canucks Crack the Kraken With 4-3 Win

It was sloppy at the start, but once the Vancouver Canucks got their legs going, it was close to a regular-season pace for the remainder of the game.

Sharp. Intense. Connected.

The Canucks power play might be low-key good this year. They were 2-for-4 against Seattle. The winning goal was scored after the power play expired. They operated at an over 30% clip during 2026. The puck moved, and there was a lot of creativity. It helped get them the win.

Much was made about Kevin Lankinen playing the full game against Calgary on Tuesday. But he was sharp that game. And he was sharp Saturday night going the distance. The Canucks need someone to carry the ball in net to start, as there are definitely decisions to be made with Tolipolo and Meriläinen. Demko is on IR.

Much WILL be made about EP40. Good game. A goal, an assist, and drew a penalty. Looked regular season ready.

Defensive play improved as the game went on. Nine giveaways in the first. Four for the remainder of the game.Including a nice hit by EP25 on Shane Wright.

The 13th forward is up for grabs; I think this might come down to role. Jonathan Lekkermaki will provide offence. But Arshdeep Bains will provide some fourth-line work. Remember, Filip Chtyil will start the season on IR. I think that puts Aatu Raty in. So it’s down to Lekkermaki and Bains. And they might both be on the roster anyway.

This is pre-season. I get it. But if the game is on TV, and it was in both Seattle and Vancouver, there should be review. Berkley Catton’s goal was offside. But once there is no review in the preseason, it counts.

Canucks open the season in Edmonton on Tuesday.